Newcastle United keeper Martin Dubravka "is to be a symbol of the new and rich Newcastle", referring to the prospective takeover in the northeast, according to the player's agent Pavel Zika.

Speaking to Slovakian outlet SME, Zika said that he was not surprised that Dubravka became one of the most respected goalkeepers in England. Indeed, the 31-year old has kept a relatively impressive 24 clean sheets in 80 games in all competitions between the sticks in his career at the Tyneside club so far, according to Transfermarkt.

Zika also spoke about the apparent truth that the Magpies were influenced by his 'excellent' performances playing for the Slovak national team against England and Scotland. Allegedly, then-Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez was looking for a keeper for the long-term, and Zika started speaking to him about Dubravka through his Spanish connections (as per SME).

Other subjects that were touched upon were the price for which Dubravka would be sold in today's transfer market, whether he would move to a so-called 'larger' team and the competition that he has both at club and international level.

The potential new owners of Saudi Arabia crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, businesswoman Amanda Staveley and the billionaire Reuben brothers will all have a decision to make as to whether they put faith in Dubravka or go out and buy a shiny new goalkeeper but, based off of his stats for the Toon, it may well be the former.

Moreover, Zika certainly seems to believe that his agent may become a symbol of the takeover, implying that he will stay in the team regardless of whether or not the £300m bid to take over from Mike Ashley is eventually approved by the Premier League.

Geordies, should Dubravka be kept as first choice goalkeeper even if the takeover goes through and extra funds become available? Comment below with your views!